Addis Ababa, 26 March 2025 (ECA) – The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), in collaboration with the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF), UNESCO, the Group of Francophone Ambassadors, and diplomatic missions in Addis Ababa, celebrated French Language Day at a vibrant event dedicated to multilingualism, cultural exchange, and the power of language in shaping Africa’s future.
The celebration, held at the United Nations Conference Centre at ECA, highlighted the French language’s role as a bridge for education, diplomacy, and pan-African collaboration. Delivering opening remarks on behalf of the ECA Executive Secretary, Aboubakri Diaw, Chief of Staff emphasized the strategic importance of multilingualism in advancing the UN’s global goals and stated that "The French language is both a bridge between cultures and a catalyst for transformation - through education, we equip young generations to understand the world and take meaningful action."
The event brought together ambassadors, educators, and youth representatives for dynamic discussions on multilingualism's transformative role in Africa. Nezha Alaoui M'Hammdi, Ambassador of Morocco and President of the Francophone Ambassadors Group, emphasized French as both a unifying diplomatic tool and strategic asset for pan-African cooperation, while Rita Bisoonauth, Director of UNESCO's Liaison Office to the AU and ECA, showcased how French-language education initiatives are empowering youth while preserving cultural heritage across the continent.
Attendees enjoyed a rich programme, blending art and advocacy, featuring musical performances by students from the Fountain of Knowledge School and the Alliance Éthio-Française - alongside poetry and performance by Vahe Tilbian, Ethiopian musician of Armenian descent. The event also featured educational insights from a video on 'The Complexity of French Vocabulary' and presentations by OIF/UNESCO on youth empowerment through French-language education. The programme culminated in a keynote by international consultant Régis Ezin on 'Promoting Entrepreneurial Education: A Vital Issue for Youth and Society.'
With over 300 million French speakers worldwide—projected to reach 700 million by 2050—the event amplified calls to accelerate multilingualism efforts in Africa’s development.
In her closing remarks, Nita Deerpalsing, Director of ECA’s Publications and Knowledge Management Division, stated: "The French language, as a vector of culture and values, plays a central role in the education process. It embodies the importance of education and collective action and underscores the solidarity and diversity of French-speaking communities across the globe." She thanked partners and urged attendees to champion multilingual policies.
Issued by:
Communications Section
Economic Commission for Africa
PO Box 3001
Addis Ababa
Ethiopia
Tel: +251 11 551 5826
E-mail: eca-info@un.org